By P.G. Sittenfeld
Enquirer contributor

Shannice Clark, 15, a sophomore at Withrow University High School tries on backpacks at Dick's Sporting Goods in Springdale. (Craig Ruttle/The Enquirer)

Whether it's singing with the school chorus, arguing with the debate team or doing back flips with the gymnastics squad, extracurricular activities can be as rewarding as they are diverse.

"Writing for the school paper is really fun," said Sycamore senior April Wang, editor of the monthly newspaper. "I couldn't imagine high school without doing it."

Extracurriculars are not a waste of time, according to Austin, Texas-based University Scholastic League. After reviewing a number of case studies, it found in 1998 that "students who participate in activity programs tend to have higher grade-point averages, better attendance records, lower dropout rates and fewer discipline problems."

Being a member of a club or team often has a stabilizing effect, say experts. "When students are involved in an activity, they often are more organized with their school work and use their time more efficiently because they know they don't have time to waste," said Susan Marrs, chairwoman of college counseling and curriculum development at Seven Hills High School.

Joe Sofranko, a senior at Walnut Hills, finds that acting forces him to focus. He played Sky Masterson in a school production of Guys and Dolls last year. "When I'm not busy with rehearsals is when I procrastinate," he said.

Extracurriculars also can reduce stress. "My activities help me stay sane," said Sofranko.

Alex Godofsky, a senior offensive lineman for St. Xavier's football team, said, "When I'm at practice, I'm not thinking about school or worrying about other things."

Then there's the sense of community and camaraderie that activities provide. "It's about being part of something bigger than myself," said Godofsky.

Wang finds the same to be true: "When it's deadline time at the newspaper, everyone knows that we're all sweating together."